The third research cycle initiated in March 2020 has concluded, marking an epochal period coinciding with the onset of the pandemic crisis. This latest report, 2022-2023, reflects the ongoing commitment to monitor and understand disinformation narratives in Italy, highlighting developments and changes over the past years.

Since March 2020, significant transformations and the emergence of new phenomena have undermined citizens' trust in democracies, institutional credibility, and media. The research on "Identifying and Countering Coordinated Disinformation Operations" examined the complex dynamics of communities involved in spreading false information in Italy. The collaborative efforts of the interdisciplinary team, comprising law professors, journalists, social scientists, and analysts, focused on analyzing online platforms and contexts. This allowed for the study of the evolution of disinformation tactics and strategies, as well as the intricate networks involved.

In recent years, the threat of disinformation has increased, especially with the advent of new technologies that have introduced new levels of complexity to the information ecosystem. This complexity is particularly evident in crucial events such as the Covid-19 pandemic, the onset of the war in the Middle East, and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

The report underscores the fundamental contribution of this research in providing essential tools for both public and private institutions to analyze, monitor, and respond to disinformation. Recommendations and policies are offered in light of the Digital Service Act's enforcement and the role that the AI Act will play in regulation. Collaboration between the Harvard Kennedy School Misinformation Review, the Luiss Law Department, Luiss Data Lab, the University of Michigan, and other organizations facilitated the adaptation and application of research methodologies developed in the United States to Italy.

The period we have traversed, amid the pandemic and war, has highlighted the danger of a manipulated public opinion for democracy and national security. The research has demonstrated how timely analysis can facilitate immediate responses in emergency situations, such as during the crisis in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of continuous monitoring of new narratives.

The collaboration between universities and institutions has been praised as a virtuous example, indicating the way for future synergies. Positive developments are observed in the regulatory and institutional context, with Italian, European, and international institutions intensifying cooperation to address the challenge of disinformation.

The future goal is to intensify efforts to understand how disinformation spreads in Italy, providing institutions with the necessary tools to respond effectively. This ambitious work aims to contribute to a greater understanding of the disinformation problem and stimulate reflections to develop policy responses, both at the public and private levels. Effective addressing of disinformation challenges requires continuous collaboration between diverse areas of academic research and institutions.

Read the full research report HERE.